Industry Partnerships & Funded Research
Our research is grounded in real-world impact through long-term partnerships with industry leaders, utilities, and government agencies. Each collaboration is designed to tackle South Africa's most pressing energy challenges — from municipal asset management to green hydrogen and grid modernisation.
Smart Asset Management with SANEDI
SANEDI
Partnering with the South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), we developed AssetCloud — an online platform empowering small municipalities across South Africa to assess and improve their electrical asset management practices. This directly addresses the financial difficulties municipalities face due to poor asset management, enabling more accurate cost-of-supply studies and fairer electricity tariff determinations.
asset-check.com
Advancing Distributed Solar PV Uptake
SANEDI
This project investigates the potential for rooftop solar PV adoption in residential and commercial sectors across South Africa. It examines the drivers behind virtual power plant formation and the legal, regulatory, and policy frameworks needed to support successful implementation and grid integration at scale.
sanedi.org.za
Smart Microgrids Research
SANEDI
In collaboration with SANEDI, this project develops smart microgrid solutions that enhance the resilience and sustainability of local energy networks. Research focuses on integrating renewable energy sources with advanced grid technologies to deliver reliable, efficient, and clean power to underserved communities.
sanedi.org.za
SARCHI Chair in Power System Modelling
SASOL
Funded by SASOL, this South African Research Chair Initiative (SARChI) focuses on advanced modelling of power systems to support the energy transition. Research outputs inform national grid planning, improve the integration of renewables, and build postgraduate capacity in power engineering.
sasol.com
Chair in Energy Efficiency
EXXARO
Supported by EXXARO Resources, this research chair drives innovation in industrial and municipal energy efficiency. Projects span demand-side management, energy auditing methodologies, and the development of technologies that reduce consumption and carbon footprint across South Africa's mining and industrial sectors.
exxaro.com
Chair in Electrical Engineering
Rand Water
In partnership with Rand Water, this chair addresses electrical engineering challenges in water utilities — one of South Africa's largest electricity consumers. Research covers pump efficiency optimisation, energy recovery systems, and smart monitoring to reduce the energy intensity of water supply infrastructure.
randwater.co.za